SLS Test Fire:Powerful NASA SLS rocket engine test-fired in Mississippi | video Watch the 500 second test firing of an RS-25 rocket engine. One of four assigned to the first stage of NASA's Space Launch System rocket, the engine is a crucial component of the heavy lift rocket under development to start human explorers on future missions of human deep space exploration.

Starliner Testing:Boeing employs test dummies on Starliner safety trials Boeing has borrowed a page from the automotive industry in using test dummies to evaluate seating aboard the CST-100 Starliner, which is currently in development under NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Evaluations are underway at Boeing facilities in Mesa, Arizona. Spaceflight tests are anticipated for next year.

Dream Chaser Milestone:Dream Chaser passes major CRS-2 review milestone, next flight test nears Sierra Nevada's Dream Chaser has reached a development milestone under NASA's International Space Station Commercial Resupply Services-2 contract. Both NASA and the FAA joined to assess all stages of the winged Dream Chaser's flight profile. The company is one of three selected by NASA to deliver cargo to the space station between 2019 and 2024, and the only one capable of landing on a runway.

Space Policy, Missions, Benefits, International …

New Astronauts: NASA introduces 12 new astronauts Vice President Mike Pence joined Robert Lightfoot, NASA's acting administrator, in Houston on Wednesday to introduce a new class of U.S. astronaut recruits. "I can't tell you how privileged and honored I feel today to be able to congratulate the newest class of American heroes, the 2017 class of America's astronauts," said Pence, while visiting the Johnson Space Center and Mission Control.

Space Council:Pence reiterates plans to reestablish the National Space Council Vice President Mike Pence says the Trump Administration intends to reinstate the National Space Council, the cabinet-level space policy making body. Pence would chair the council that was first initiated in 1958 but dissolved in 1993. Pence offered the pledge while at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston on Wednesday to present a new class of U.S. astronauts.

Asteroid Mission: ARM could live on without its arm Though cancelled in the Trump Administration's proposed 2018 budget, key elements of NASA's Asteroid Redirect Mission (ARM) could live on to contribute to efforts to reach Mars with human explorers. Solar Electric Propulsion and a new high power solar array design could transition to NASA's plans for a Deep Space Gateway, a lunar-orbiting space operations base that could help to prepare astronauts for the two to three year red planet journey.

UAE’s Plans for Exploration:The United Arab Emirates launches a plan to colonize Mars by 2117 The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is joining a global line-up of nations and companies with ambitions of settling Mars. The Emirates-envisioned City of Wisdom would become home to 600,000 people on Mars around 2117. "We see Mars 2117 as a multinational effort, which would set out to create a coalition of equals working together to fulfill a unified objective,'' said Saeed Gergawi, program director of the Mars project.

SLS Upper Stage Testing:Space Launch System (SLS) upper stage testing begins Tests underway at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center are intended to prepare a Space Launch System (SLS) upper stage for flight. Initiated in February, the assessment should be complete by the middle of this month. The SLS and Orion are under development at NASA to start humans on new missions of deep space exploration.

Gateway to Mars:Preparing for the Deep Space Gateway NASA's Flexible Deep Space Gateway, a lunar orbiting NASA space station, would be the link between the International Space Station and future missions to the Martian environs with human explorers. In addition to testing life support systems developed to support two to three yearlong missions to Mars, the gateway would expose astronauts to the physical and mental challenges of the long missions. NASA is focused on launching its first human mission to Mars in 2033. (See also: Risky business: NASA experts discuss threats faced by space travelers, No rush for Mars)

Outer Space Treaty:Cruz to hold hearing on updating the Outer Space Treaty During a Washington forum, Senator Ted Cruz, chair of the Senate Space Subcommittee, announced plans for a May 23 hearing in which experts will address possible changes to the half century old Outer Space Treaty, which governs the staking of claim to space destinations and rights to resources. The treaty is a factor in the commercial development of space.

Commercial Space Launch:Draft bill would give commerce, not FAA, "mission authorization" function Draft legislation would make the U.S. Department of Commerce's Office of Space Commerce responsible for oversight of non-government space activities rather than the FAA's Office of Commercial Space Transportation in the Department of Transportation. Three lawmakers are floating the idea, according to the report. They include Rep. Lamar Smith, chair of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee; Rep. Brian Babin, who chairs the panel's Space Subcommittee; and Rep. Jim Bridenstine, of Oklahoma.

Becoming an Astronaut:How I became an astronaut: Victor Glover Navy test pilot Victor Glover discusses his 2013 NASA astronaut selection and how he got where he is and where he's going. "Be a life-long learner," he advises. "This is not an entry level job."

Robots to Mars:Meet Valkyrie, NASA's space robot Standing six foot two, Valkyrie is a humanoid robot developed at NASA's Johnson Space Center that could be part of missions launched to Mars ahead of the first human explorers and commanded to help assemble sheltering. Valkyrie is among 20 competitors headed for the Space Robot Challenge in June.

Exploration and Commercialization:Made in Space The International Space Station (ISS) serves two critical roles for pioneering space development. It is our gateway to human exploration of the solar system and an incubator for the commercial development of space beyond telecommunications. Made In Space is a small business that has capitalized on the unique capabilities of the ISS to spur technological and business innovations for both.

Orion and Space Launch System

Orion Rocket Motor Test:The abort rocket motor for NASA's Orion spacecraft just aced a big test Orbital ATK announced that the company's contribution to the Abort System rocket for NASA's Orion crew exploration capsule performed successfully during a recent ground test. If there were an emergency during liftoff, the rocket would help steer Orion and its astronaut crew safely away from the Space Launch System to landing.

NASA Michoud Supports Orion and SLS:Guest column: Louisiana helping NASA launch into deep space Todd May, director of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, explains the role of the Michoud Assembly Facility in the space agency's efforts to return to deep space with human explorers. At Michoud, nearly 3,500 workers are involved in the production of the Space Launch System's first stage rocket and the pressure vessel for the Orion crew exploration capsule.

Commercial Space Transportation

Starliner Engine Testing:Starliner's propulsion system engines complete qualification tests The steering system thrusters for Boeing's CST-100 Starliner have been qualified. Aerojet Rocketdyne hardware will help steer the capsule in development under NASA's Commercial Crew program to transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station.

Space Policy, Missions, Benefits, International …

Space Council:Executive Order creating National Space Council expected soon The White House is close to re-establishing the National Space Council, a cabinet level group led by the vice president to help shape U.S. space policy, according to Bob Walker, an advisor to the Trump Administration and former chair of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee.

Interview with NASA JSC’s Ellen Ochoa:NASA's Ellen Ochoa: We are going deeper into space than ever Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic female astronaut, leads NASA's Johnson Space Center. A Stanford educated electrical engineer, Ochoa launched five times as a shuttle astronaut. This month she will be inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. Johnson leads the development of NASA's Orion capsule, the spacecraft that is to launch and land astronauts selected for future missions of deep space exploration.

Mars Exploration:If we successfully land on Mars, could we live there? After a month's long journey from Earth, human explorers face the challenges of reaching the surface of Mars safely, then sustaining themselves and moving about in the thin, dry atmosphere, cold temperatures and low gravity. NASA is working with the U.S. private sector and its international partners to address these challenges.

Space Mining:Space-mining may be only a decade away. Really. Middle Eastern states are expressing interest in space mining, possibly the extraction of water and minerals from the moon and other planetary bodies, to fortify their economies. Shrinking launch costs appear an important part of making the enterprise possible.

Human Space Exploration Update(April 12-28, 2017)

FY18 Budget

NASA Fares Well:A Republican favorite, NASA escapes Trump's budget ax NASA, a national engine for economic growth and innovation, has fared well in President Trump's proposed 2018 budget for the fiscal year that begins October 1. The $19.1 billion proposed for NASA, represents a less than one percent reduction, much less than proposed reductions for other federal agencies. Supporters are optimistic about how the appropriations process will unfold, given bipartisan support for the agency's missions in states like Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Texas and California.

Space Food:NASA to build better salads in space on latest mission Science experiments in route to the International Space Station aboard Orbital ATK's seventh NASA contracted re-supply mission include a new high tech space greenhouse. Goals of NASA's Advanced Plant Habitat include developing a source of nutrition for future human deep space explorers as well as a natural means of recycling breathing air and drinking water.

Flying Crew on EM-1:NASA's study of adding crew to EM-1 is completed, awaiting response NASA's assessment of whether it can add astronauts to EM-1, the first joint test flight of the Space Launch System and Orion crew exploration capsule, is complete and has been briefed to the White House as well as top agency leadership, though not yet been made public. The launch of EM-1 as an unmanned test flight of Orion around the moon and back had been planned for late 2018. In February, NASA Acting Administrator Robert Lightfoot requested that the agency study the feasibility of adding crew to EM-1, a step that had not been planned previously until EM-2, planned for 2021-23.

EFT-1 on Display:Orion EFT-1 flown spacecraft joins display in 'NASA Now' exhibit NASA's Orion capsule launched its first uncrewed test flight in December 2014, Exploration Flight Test-1. The Lockheed Martin developed spacecraft circled the Earth twice and re-entered the Earth's atmosphere for an ocean splashdown. The capsule is now on public display at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center on Florida's space coast.

Crews to be Named:Commercial crew flight assignments could come this summer NASA's Commercial Crew Program is overseeing the development of two spacecraft capable of transporting astronauts to and from the International Space Station, Boeing's CST-100 and SpaceX's crewed Dragon. NASA may be close to assigning astronauts to test flights planned for 2018.

Orbital Delivers Cargo to ISS:Supply ship named for John Glenn arrives at Space Station Orbital ATK's seventh NASA contracted resupply capsule reached the International Space Station early Saturday. Astronauts Thomas Pesquet and Peggy Whitson grappled the capsule named for the late Mercury astronaut John Glenn using Canada's robot arm. The Orbital freighter delivered 7,600 pounds of crew supplies and scientific equipment.

Space Policy, Missions, Benefits, International …

Outer Space Treaty:Cruz interested in updating Outer Space Treaty to support commercial space activities Senator Ted Cruz, chair of the Senate's Space Subcommittee, indicated it may be time to seek changes to the 50-year-old UN Outer Space Treaty in order to encourage U.S. commercial space activities through ownership of recovered resources from the moon and asteroids. Changes could be reflected in an updated version of the U.S. Commercial Space Launch Competitiveness Act, passed in 2015.

China:China eyes international `Moon Village' China is pondering participation in the European Space Agency's proposed moon village, an international/commercial settlement on the moon. Construction would begin in the 2020s. However, one Peking University scientist believes his native country should follow its own course in the exploration of space, one that is focused on deep space exploration and that will establish China as a space power by 2030. (See also: China takes another step towards permanent space station)

Lunar Exploration:Space agency heads see the moon on the path to Mars As a destination beyond the International Space Station, the Earth's moon offers a place to gain experience and possibly obtain resources for the future human exploration of Mars and other deep space destinations, according to representatives from many of the world's space agencies gathered for the 33rd Space Symposium in Colorado Springs earlier this month. While NASA is more interested in a lunar-orbiting Deep Space Gateway, other nations are intrigued by the lunar surface. NASA, however, has not ruled out a lunar surface collaboration.

Mission Control – The Movie:Mission Control is a wonderful movie. Go see it now.Mission Control, a new documentary combining historical footage with current day interviews examines the personnel behind the scenes that helped to drive the success of NASA's Apollo era. "They were always watching, running the missions, and ready to make split-second decisions," notes the review. "In our uncertain times, such a film serves as a marvelous tonic to remind us what America is capable of when we work together toward a common goal."

Twins Research:NASA twins study researchers take genetic data to next level NASA astronaut Scott Kelly set a U.S. record of 340 days in space for a single mission as he returned to Earth from the International Space Station in March 2016. Though Scott's twin brother, retired NASA astronaut Mark Kelly remained behind, the two men made and are making a significant contribution to future human deep space travel by serving as subjects in a range of health research projects. The "twin studies" are looking at how long space missions affect genes and how those changes influence physical and psychological well-being.

Orion and Space Launch System

Senate Letter to President:Hatch Urges Continued Support of Space Exploration in Letter to President Trump Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT), the senior Republican in the United States Senate, led 23 of his colleagues in a letter to President Trump highlighting the importance of space exploration infrastructure, including the Space Launch System (SLS), the Orion Spacecraft, and the Exploration Ground System (EGS). The letter calls for a renewed focus on deep space assets and urges the President to continue supporting these critical systems.

Orion Testing:Orion's parachutes tested under launch abort conditions NASA exercised the descent parachute system for the Orion crew exploration capsule this week over the U.S. Army Proving Ground in Arizona. The test capsule, without crew, was dropped from a U.S. Air Force transport aircraft at an altitude of 25,000 feet to check out the chutes that would be deployed in the event of an Orion launch abort.

Starliner Testing:Returning astronauts safely: Starliner test provides crucial re-entry data New Mexico's Spaceport America is the site of parachute testing for Boeing's CST-100 Starliner, one of two spacecraft in development under NASA's Commercial Crew Program to transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station. A helium balloon is carrying a capsule mockup to high altitude for the parachute release. The most recent test was carried out on March 10.

Dragon Supply Mission:SpaceX's Dragon supply carrier wraps up 10th mission to Space Station NASA's latest contracted re-supply mission to the International Space Station concluded early Sunday with a Pacific Ocean splashdown and recovery. The mission, launched February 19 by SpaceX, delivered a new external sensor to monitor the health of the Earth's atmosphere; a stem cell investigation for cancer treatment and another investigation of processes influencing bone and tissue injuries; and sensors to help develop a new commercial satellite servicing industry. SpaceX's Dragon capsule returned with over 5,400 pounds of science gear and no longer needed equipment.

Dream Chaser Tests:Sierra Nevada to resume Dream Chaser flight tests Engineers are preparing Sierra Nevada's winged, reusable Dream Chaser spacecraft for tow and landing tests at NASA's Ames Research Center in California this spring. Sierra has been contracted by NASA for delivery of the cargo to the International Space Station using Dream Chaser beginning in 2019.

Docking Portal for Commercial Space:Docking port relocated at Space Station to support commercial spacecraft Using Canadian robotics on the outside of the International Space Station, NASA ground controllers have moved a former space shuttle docking component, Pressurized Mating Adapter-3 (PMA-3), from the outside of the Station's U.S. segment Tranquility to a space-facing location on the outside of the Harmony module. The work will prepare PMA-3 to serve as the base for a NASA/Boeing International Docking Adapter, which is to arrive at the Station by early next year to complete a new docking port for astronauts launched aboard Boeing's CST-100 Starliner and SpaceX's Dragon.

AF Space Corps:Rogers calls for separate "Space Corps'' within the Air Force Rep. Mike Rogers, chair of the U.S. House Armed Services strategic forces subcommittee, intends to initiate steps establishing a Space Corps, a separate branch of the military within the Department of Defense, much as the Air Force was split off from the U.S. Army Air Corps decades ago.

Human Space Exploration Update(Feb 1-24, 2017)

NASA Authorization Legislation

Senate:Senate passes 2017 NASA Transition Authorization Act The U.S. Senate passed an updated NASA authorization measure on Friday, one similar to a House measure approved in the last Congress. Formulated with bi-partisan support, the Senate measure urges NASA to study how the Orion capsule might serve as a backup to the commercial crew vehicles under development by Boeing and SpaceX, the CST-100 Starliner and crewed Dragon. The crewed Starliner and Dragon are to transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station. The bill also questions the value of the Asteroid Redirect Mission, a robotic effort that would extract a boulder from an asteroid and maneuver it into orbit around the moon, where it could be studied by astronauts launched aboard a Space Launch System rocket and Orion crew vehicle in the 2020s.

International Space Station

New ISS Airlock:The International Space Station will get a new, private airlock in 2019 Houston-based Nanoracks has reached an agreement with NASA for the installation of a cargo airlock on the U.S. segment of the International Space Station, possibly at the Tranquility module. Boeing will assemble and install a compatible berthing mechanism. The new hardware could be installed in 2019. Nanoracks expects to use the airlock to increase the numbers of small satellites it can launch from the Space Station.

Long-Duration Space Flight:First results on Scott Kelly after year in space reveal space travel changes DNA NASA's offers the initial results of its twins study, a look at how long duration spaceflight alters the body's genetics. The findings are based on studies of NASA's Scott Kelly, who spent 340 days aboard the International Space Station in 2015-16 and his twin brother, Mark Kelly, a retired NASA astronaut who remained on Earth.

Orion and Space Launch System

Orion Update:Insider exclusive: Orion designed to keep crew in the 'loop' Lockheed Martin, NASA's prime contractor for development of the Orion crew module, is paying close attention to the requirements and limitations of future crew members as it proceeds, according to the company's crew module director. Work is underway at NASA's Johnson Space Center on the spacecraft that is to start human explorers on new missions of deep space exploration.

Commercial Crew:Commercial crew providers remain confident in schedules Prepare for the inaugural launches of astronauts by Boeing and SpaceX in 2018, representatives of the two companies are declaring in response to a recent U.S. Government Accountability Office audit that cautions the flights could be delayed until 2019. Boeing's Starliner 100 and SpaceX's crewed Dragon are in development under NASA's Commercial Crew Program to restore a U.S. human launch capability lost when NASA's space shuttle fleet was retired in 2011. Boeing and SpaceX are to transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station. (See also: NASA to provide Commercial Crew backup plan by March 13 in response to GAO)

Boeing Starliner:Exclusive: Boeing's space taxis to use more than 600 3-D printed parts Boeing plans to feature 3-D printing technologies in the production of the company's CST-100 Starliner, which is in development under NASA's Commercial Crew Program for the transportation of astronauts to and from the International Space Station. Oxford Performance Materials will be the supplier.

SpaceX Resupply Mission to ISS:SpaceX makes good on Space Station delivery a little lateAfter a day's delay, SpaceX's tenth Dragon resupply mission spacecraft rendezvoused with the International Space Station early Thursday. European Space Agency astronaut Thomas Pesquet and NASA's Shane Kimbough teamed to capture the capsule with its 5,500 pound cargo using the Station's Canadian robot arm at 5:44 a.m., EST. The capsule, loaded with science experiments as well as crew supplies, is to remain berthed to the Space Station for about one month.

Lunar Exploration:Moon is star of congressional hearing on NASA's future The U.S. should return human explorers to the moon's surface, according to Jim Bridenstine, the Oklahoma congressman often mentioned as the Trump administration's choice to become NASA administrator. The lawmaker spoke Thursday during a U.S. House Science, Space and Technology Committee hearing on NASA's future. Others who testified echoed support for a human return to the moon before attempting to explore Mars. They included Thomas Young, a former Lockheed Martin executive, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center director and frequent White House space policy advisor, and Tom Stafford, a former NASA Apollo astronaut and advisor to NASA on the International Space Station. (See also: Bill introduced to redirect NASA to Moon, establish sustained presence

Cis-Lunar Space:Cis-lunar space: The next 30 years A United Launch Alliance vision would have 1,000 people living and working in space in the next three decades helping to expand the global economic sphere. They would be mining resources from the moon and the asteroids, manufacturing products, repairing orbiting satellites, establishing solar power utilities and refueling rockets. They would live and work in commercial habitats in cis-lunar space and the surface of the moon. ULA, a joint venture between Boeing and Lockheed Martin, presented its vision to a collection of experts gathered in Colorado earlier this month, writes Paul Spudis, a planetary scientist and participant.

China and Mars:Why China wants to go to Mars China's plans to launch a Mars lander in 2022 are part of a larger strategy to become a global force in space. The lander, designed to seek out methane in the thin Martian atmosphere, would help to address questions of whether there was, or is, microbial life on the red planet and lay ground work for human exploration in the 2030s.

Human Space Exploration Update(Jan 3-20, 2017)

Space Heroes

Gene Cernan:Eugene Cernan, last human to walk on moon, dies at 82 Gene Cernan, who commanded Apollo 17, NASA's final human moon landing mission in December 1972, died Monday afternoon, in a Houston hospital following ongoing health issues. Cernan made the lunar journey twice, serving first as lunar module pilot aboard the May 1969 Apollo 10 mission, an orbital precursor to the historic Apollo 11 moon landing by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on July 20, 1969. Cernan, who retired from the U.S. Navy, was also the second American to carry out a spacewalk, while in Earth orbit aboard the Gemini IX mission in 1966.

Inauguration Speech: “We stand at the birth of a new millennium, ready to unlock the mysteries of space, to free the Earth from the miseries of disease and to harness the energies, industries and technologies of tomorrow.” President Donald J. Trump (January 20, 2017)

NASA Future Leadership:GOP Rep. Jim Bridenstine seen as top choice for NASA Chief Oklahoma congressman Jim Bridenstine, an advocate for traditional human space exploration and space commerce, may lead the field to become NASA's administrator, according to the report. Bridenstine, a former naval aviator, has championed U.S. space leadership as a member of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee.

New Space Mission Assignments:NASA just picked these astronauts to fly in space in 2018 On Wednesday, NASA assigned veteran astronaut Drew Feustel and first timer Janette Epps to launches to the International Space Station in March and May of 2018. Epps will become the first African-American to serve aboard the 15 nation orbiting science laboratory.

Lettuce on ISS:Come again? KSC space lettuce on ISS menu Just a year ago, U.S. astronauts where experimenting with a small green house aboard the International Space Station called Veggie for growing red lettuce. This year, they are nibbling leaves of the fresh leafy vegetable and experimenting with techniques to hasten its growth.

Discussions with Bigelow:Bigelow Aerospace seeking additional use of experimental ISS module NASA and Bigelow Aerospace are in discussions over wider use of the Bigelow Expandable Aerospace Module (BEAM) launched to the International Space Station and deployed in April and May 2016. The module was expanded to kick-off a two year evaluation of its suitability for use by astronauts as an in space habitat and/or orbital module for a future space stations. Space Station astronauts enter only occasionally to gather BEAM data. According to the report, the NASA/Bigelow discussions are focused on "extended use" of the module.

Orion Spacecraft Testing:Astronauts seek the right vibe in Orion tests Tests are underway at NASA's Johnson Space Center to assess how the vibrations that accompany the launch of the Space Launch System will affect the ability of Orion astronauts to monitor the performance of their spacecraft in the early minutes of future missions of deep space exploration.

SLS Rocket Test Stand:Huge NASA rocket test stand constructed in 2.5 years | Time-lapse video Video offers the latest on the lengthy construction of a NASA Marshall Space Center test stand to help prepare the Space Launch System rocket for its first test flight in late 2018. SLS is a cornerstone of U.S. efforts to reach the Mars environs with human explorers in the 2030s.

Commercial Space Transportation

Contracts for Boeing and SpaceX:Boeing and SpaceX win four more NASA orders for space taxis, with one big 'if' NASA has agreed to purchase four more crew launches to the International Space Station from Boeing and SpaceX -- if their spacecraft achieve agency certification. Each company had contracts for two flights previously. The two companies will attempt to achieve certification with test flights currently scheduled for late 2017 through 2018. Initially.

DoT Oversight of Commercial Launches:Chao punts on whether commercial space should be restored to DOT secretary's office During confirmation hearings, Department of Transportation Secretary designate Elaine Chao was non-committal on whether the U.S. Office of Commercial Space, now part of the department's Federal Aviation Agency, should be returned to the secretary's office. The office issues licenses for U.S. commercial launches, domestic space ports and other space related activities.

Asteroid Mission:Asteroid missions face delays and restructuring Two U.S. and European robotic missions, intended to further efforts to detect and fend off an asteroid on a collision course with the Earth, face schedule development slips. In the case of NASA's Asteroid Redirect Mission (ARM), the failure by Congress to agree on a budget for 2017 is a major factor. NASA considers ARM an important part of preparing for the human exploration of Mars.

Continuing Resolution:Lightfoot: No negative impact for NASA from new CR NASA should be able to spend as needed to keep Exploration Mission-1 on track under the U.S. budget Continuing Resolution passed by the Senate late last week. Passed earlier by the U.S. House, the new CR remains in effect through April in lieu of a 2017 federal budget. The measure allows NASA to prepare for the launching of EM-1, the first unpiloted test flight of the Space Launch System and Orion capsule, by November 2018. The three week milestone mission is to send Orion around the moon and back to Earth for a splashdown. SLS and Orion are cornerstones of U.S. human deep space exploration plans in the 2020s and beyond.

NASA Authorization Bill:Senate passes NASA Authorization at last minute, too late for House action this year The Senate passed the NASA Transition Authorization Act of 2016 that addresses a range of policy matters that may provide direction for a new Congress in 2017. Adopted by acclimation on December 9, though not addressed by the U.S. House, the authorization measure seeks more definition by NASA of its human Mars exploration plans and opens the door to intermediate destinations. The legislation seeks alternatives to the Asteroid Redirect Mission and urges a discussion of an International Space Station extension from 2024 to 2028. It also seeks an independent assessment of a Mars mission launched in 2033.

Orion Service Module:Orion service module engine shipped to Europe The NASA-furnished rocket engine that will fit onto the Orion capsule slated for a crucial late 2018 unpiloted test launch of the Space Launch System exploration rocket has been shipped to Europe. There it will be mated to Orion's European furnished service module. The European service module provides power and propulsion for Orion. The rocket engine shipped to Europe has flown aboard multiple NASA space shuttle missions as part of the Orbital Maneuvering System. During Exploration Mission-1, planned for November 2018, the engine will provide propulsion for lunar orbit insertion and trans Earth injection. Orion is to loop around the moon and return to Earth for splashdown and recovery. (See also: Orion Program November Update:

SLS Assembly:Boeing and NASA prepare for the assembly of the first SLS rocket Working with NASA at the Michoud Assembly Facility, prime contractor Boeing is bringing together the five major elements of the Space Launch System core, or first stage. The large rocket, cornerstone of plans to launch humans on missions of deep space exploration, is being prepared for its first unpiloted test flight in late 2018.

Commercial Space Transportation

Commercial Crew:NASA has a new way to fly The U.S. has turned to Russia to transport astronauts to and from the International Space Station since NASA's space shuttle fleet was retired in 2011. But that's changing with some important milestones ahead for Boeing and SpaceX, the two U.S. companies developing low Earth orbit astronaut transportation services under NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Both companies hope to overcome development and funding issues to launch crewed test flights in 2018. (See also: SpaceX officially delays first crewed flight of its Dragon capsule for NASA)

Space Policy, Missions, Benefits, International …

Buzz Aldrin on Exploration and John Glenn:Buzz Aldrin: John Glenn was a hero. We owe it to him to keep exploring space Apollo 11's Buzz Aldrin recalls his long-running association with John Glenn, the Mercury astronaut and first American to orbit the Earth, in an op-ed. Glenn died last week in his native Ohio at the age of 95. "I believe our country is ready for another great leap, another John Glenn moment in history and another presidential commitment to space worthy of our great nation," writes Aldrin, an advocate for human deep space exploration.

Why Mars?:Why Mars? To discover how life originates Mars, with its rocky terrain and evidence for past bodies of surface water, shares more similarities with the Earth than the moon or neighboring Venus. The red planet offers the best opportunity for skilled human explorers to look for evidence of past or even present life, writes Ramses Ramirez, Cornell University planetary scientist and astrobiologist.

Europe and Lunar Exploration:Europe's bold plan for a Moon base is coming together As a global community, we've reached Space 4.0, according to European Space Agency Director General Jan Woerner. In Europe, that means transitioning from the International Space Station to a global village on the moon for exploration, science and new commerce.

Japan and Lunar Exploration:Japan is going to mine the moon The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency has announced plans to work with a Tokyo based firm to develop a lunar mining strategy, joining a field already of interest in the U.S., Europe, Russia and China.

Pence to Chair National Space Council:Trump advisor sees Pence playing a major role in space policy Vice President-elect Mike Pence is likely to help shape U.S. space policy under the next administration, according to Robert Walker, the former U.S. congressman and chair of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee. One role Pence seems eager to embrace is as chair of a revived National Space Council, a cabinet-level policy group, Walker said.

Coalition for Deep Space Exploration: AIA, CSE call on Trump administration to support space exploration road map With the broad support of the Aerospace Industries Association and the Citizens for Space Exploration, the Coalition for Deep Space Exploration is offering a bipartisan space road map with seven proposals for the new administration of President-elect Trump and Congress to advance human space exploration. Those include continued efforts to develop and flight test NASA's Space Launch System exploration rocket and Orion crew capsule; launch the James Webb Telescope in late 2018; make the most of the International Space Station to advance space technologies and foster more commercial activity in low Earth orbit; as well as streamline NASA's bureaucracy and procurement processes.

Year-long Missions:After Scott Kelly's flight, NASA plans five more one-year missions By spring 2017, NASA and Roscosmos, the Russian federal space agency, will mark the first anniversary of the 340-day mission to the International Space Station flown by now retired NASA astronaut Scott Kelly and cosmonaut Mikhail Korienko. Currently, the two agencies are discussing five additional two-person long duration missions before the end of space station operations in 2024. The findings, say researchers, will help reveal the physical and mental challenges of long duration missions of human exploration, like those planned for cislunar space and Mars.

Inflatable House:Inflatable house attached to ISS is doing well, says NASA Bigelow Aerospace's Bigelow Expandable Aerospace Module (BEAM) began a two year evaluation aboard the six-person International Space Station in May. So far, the module -- pressurized but not occupied by astronauts except for the occasional data gathering -- is doing well, according to a NASA status report. NASA is evaluating several proposals for space habitats suitable for future Earth orbit space stations, lunar orbiting habitats or habitats shepherding explorers to Mars.

Orion and Space Launch System

Funding for Orion/SLS:New CR funds government through April 28, protects SLS/Orion and JPSS A proposed budget Continuing Resolution, written by House appropriators and approved by the House, would keep government agencies operating through April 28 at 2016 spending levels. However, a special provision would enable NASA's Space Launch System, Orion and new ground support programs to spend at rates needed to support the planned November 2018 launch of Exploration Mission-1. EM-1 is to be the first unmanned test flight of the SLS and Orion, key elements of NASA's plans to launch humans on future missions to lunar orbit and Mars. EM-1 would send Orion around the moon and back to Earth over a three week voyage. The full House, Senate and President Obama must sign off on the proposed Continuing Resolution. The current CR expires Friday, December 9 at midnight. The 2017 federal fiscal year began October 1 without a budget.

EM-2 Mission:NASA considers shorter first crewed SLS/Orion mission Exploration Mission-2, planned by NASA as the first crewed mission of a Space Launch System boosted Orion capsule, would orbit the Earth for a day before embarking on a free return loop around the moon and back, according to a presentation from Bill Gerstenmaier, NASA's associate administrator for human exploration and operations, before the NASA Advisory Council. The council gathered in California last week. One previous EM-2 proposal involved a nine to 13 day mission. The latest proposal would relax propulsion requirements and life support demands on the new Orion spacecraft. The proposed eight-day version of EM-2 would follow EM-1, a three week unmanned test of an SLS launched Orion spacecraft around the moon and back to Earth planned for late 2018.

SLS Testing:NASA shows how close its SLS rocket is to getting a 'fatal' squeeze Experts at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center are bringing first-stage components of the giant Space Launch System (SLS) exploration rocket together for a series of ground tests that will simulate launch like conditions. More than 50 different tests of the hardware will begin in January. SLS is a cornerstone of NASA's plans to resume human deep space exploration with journeys to lunar orbit and Mars by the mid-2030s. The first launch of the SLS, Exploration Mission-1, is planned for late 2018.

Commercial Space Transportation

Orbital ATK / Cygnus Resupply Mission:Destructive re-entry marks end to successful Cygnus OA-5 mission Orbital ATK's latest and most innovative NASA contracted re-supply mission carried out a planned destructive re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere over the Pacific Ocean. Orbital's Cygnus re-supply capsule departed the six-person International Space Station early November 21 for an extended, six-day solo mission to deploy Spire Global CubeSats to monitor maritime traffic and weather, as well as carry out SAFFIRE II, a fire safety experiment for NASA. Launched in mid-October, Cygnus delivered more than 5,100 pounds of supplies and research equipment to the station.

Asteroid Mission:Smith, Babin question NASA assertion that scientists now support ARM Chairs of the U.S. House Science, Space and Technology Committee and its Space Subcommittee have asked NASA for documentation to back-up recent claims of new science community support for the agency's proposed two-phase Asteroid Redirect Mission. Previously unpopular among some quarters of the space community and House appropriators, the nearly $2 billion initial phase would robotically gather a boulder from an asteroid and move the boulder into lunar orbit, where it could be visited by NASA astronauts launched aboard a Space Launch System rocket and Orion capsule.

Space Mining:Extraterrestrial gold rush: What's next for the space mining industry? Space resources, water and perhaps precious metals locked in the soil of the moon and near Earth asteroids could provide the financial lure that draws the Earth's commercial sector into space. Experts in terrestrial mining believe there may be important analogs to mining oil and gas, and other energy and metal resources from the Earth, among them establishing vital supply chains.

Chinese Astronauts:China to select new astronauts in 2017 China is ready to begin a third round of astronaut selection, an announcement that comes on the heels of the country's first mission to the recently launched Tiangong-2 space lab. China will select its candidates from the military and aerospace communities.

RD-180 Engines:Russia to supply RD-180 rocket engines to US in 2017 Russia's Energomash expects to export 19 RD-180 and RD-181 rocket engines to the U.S. next year for use by United Launch Alliance's Atlas V and Orbital ATK's Antares launch vehicles. The U.S. Congress lifted a ban on imports of the rocket engines after 2019, once it became clear efforts to develop domestic replacements would take longer.

·Navy Supports Orion:Navy prepares for recovering NASA's Orion Capsule Off San Diego, the Navy has joined with NASA in preparing for the future Pacific Ocean recovery of the space agency's Orion crew exploration capsule. The next test launch of Orion, Exploration Mission-1, will send an unmanned capsule lofted atop a Space Launch System rocket on a journey around the moon and back to Earth for re-entry and an ocean splashdown. EM-1 is planned for late 2018. Piloted Orion missions are to follow.

·SpaceX: Musk predicts mid-December return to flight for Falcon 9SpaceX founder Elon Musk pointed to a mid-December return to flight for the Falcon 9 launch vehicle, following an investigation into a Sept. 1 launch pad explosion of a Falcon 9 during preparations for a pre-launch engine firing. Musk pointed to the formation of helium ice within the Falcon 9's second stage liquid oxygen propellant tank as the cause of the blast.

·Dream Chaser:Dream Chaser Sierra Nevada announced its selection of the Midland International Air & Space Port to serve as the primary landing site for the NASA contracted re-supply missions it will launch to the International Space Station. Sierra Nevada, along with Orbital ATK and SpaceX, is to begin cargo deliveries by 2020 under a new NASA agreement. In Midland, city officials are hopeful the deal will lead to new economic development. Sierra's Dream Chaser is a reusable lifting body designed to make automated landings on runways stretching to 8,000 feet.

·Clinton/Trump on Space:Exclusive | Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump weigh in on U.S. space policy The U.S. presidential contenders address questions about NASA as well as military space funding and future goals. "After taking office, we will have a comprehensive review of our plans for space, and will work with Congress to set both priorities and mission," said Donald Trump."Mars is a consensus horizon goal, though to send humans safely, we still need to advance the technologies required to mitigate the effects of long-duration, deep-space flight," said Hillary Clinton.

·Clinton and Lunar Exploration:Here's why a Clinton administration might pivot NASA back to the Moon A U.S.-led, international return to the lunar surface with astronauts could considered, if the next U.S. president is Hillary Clinton. Neal Lane, former president Bill Clinton's White House science advisor, is offering informal science policy information to Clinton. During a Monday night forum at Rice University, in Houston, where Lane is a professor, he championed the moon as a good next step for humans on an eventual Journey to Mars, the destination championed by President Obama.

·Advice for a New President/Administration:Why the next President must invest in NASA NASA has a legacy of introducing new technologies and inspiring the nation's and the world's youth, writes U.S. Rep. Donna Edwards, Maryland congresswoman and ranking member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology's Space Subcommittee. "We can't forget that space is hard, and achieving ambitious goals takes talent and money," writes Edwards. "Funding NASA and leveraging the resources of commercial interests and our international partners is an investment that has and will continue to generate long-lasting dividends." (See also: The Mars generation: Kicking the can down the road )

·Future of Space:The Importance of Space Through the Transition Why is the space community concerned about the upcoming change in presidential administrations? Many hope for a transition that supports current initiatives important to the nation's economy and U.S. leadership in space, writes Elliot Holokauahi Pulham, CEO of the Space Foundation.

·ISS Robots: Meet the growing family of space station robots A growing number of robots aboard the International Space Station are as multi-national and varied in their skills as the orbiting lab's rotating crew of astronauts and cosmonauts.

·Orion Testing at Plum: Orion service module passes major shake test at NASA's Plum Brook Station The European Space Agency's service module contribution to NASA's Orion capsule has been undergoing ground testing at NASA's Glenn Research Center Plum Brook Station since spring. This testing was the first to replicate the acoustic launch environment and vibrations of the lift off. Orion and ESA service module flight hardware will come together at Glenn late next year for more testing ahead of Exploration Mission-1, a late 2018 uncrewed test flight of the Space Launch System, Orion and the service module.

·SLS/Orion Testing:NASA completes `summer of testing' for SLS and Orion A summer of testing for NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion crew capsule is coming to a productive close. Components undergoing tests included the SLS solid rocket motors and main engines, as well as Orion's parachute systems.

·SLS EM-1 Hardware: NASA's First SLS Mars Rocket Fuel Tank Completes Welding The enormous Space Launch System liquid hydrogen propellant tank was fabricated at NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility. It will join the rocket components assigned to the first test launch of the SLS with an uncrewed Orion spacecraft in late 2018.

·SLS EM-2 Payloads:NASA seeks payload concepts for second SLS flight NASA's Human Exploration and Operations Directorate is seeking proposals for secondary payloads to launch aboard Exploration Mission-2, the first crewed test flight of the Space Launch System and Orion exploration rocket and spacecraft. The opportunity is open to NASA centers, industry, academia and NASA's international partners. The proposed payloads must further U.S. deep space exploration goals. EM-2 is being prepared to launch as soon as August 2021.

·No Plans for More Soyuz: NASA has no plans to buy more Soyuz seats, and it may be too late anyway NASA is holding off on the purchase of additional Russian transportation to the International Space Station aboard Soyuz spacecraft in 2019. Agency executives believe Boeing's CST-100 Starliner and the SpaceX crewed Dragon will be ready to launch NASA astronauts by late 2018 despite technical and budget challenges. Both companies are developing their spacecraft under NASA's Commercial Crew Program.

·Blue Origin Abort Testing:Blue Origin successfully tests New Shepard abort system As designed, the crew capsule separated and landed safely on the plains of West Texas, following the launch of Blue Origin's New Shepard reusable launch vehicle. The capsule parachuted to the ground, while the launch vehicle stabilized and landed tail first to end its fifth non-crewed test launch.

Space Budgets, Policy, Missions, Benefits, International …

·China: Will NASA ever work with China? The U.S. is congressionally banned from partnering with China in space. If they are to cooperate, there will be a lot of history to overcome.

·Mars: Is there a business case for Mars? Will the private sector play a significant role in the human exploration of Mars? Essayists Chris Carberry and Rick Zucker conclude the commercial sector will through the innovation and development of new technologies also relevant to Earth. Carberry is CEO of Explore Mars, Inc., and Zucker is the organization's VP for policy.

Human Space Exploration Update (September 26-30, 2016)

Congress

·Continuing Resolution:Congress Votes to Keep Government Open Through December 9 Congress has passed none of the 12 appropriations bills that comprise a budget for the 2017 fiscal year starting Oct. 1, including a spending plan for NASA. The budget CR will remain in effect through the November elections and until Dec. 9.

·Starliner Update:Boeing's Starliner crew trainers installed in historic NASA simulator facility Boeing crew trainer equipment for astronauts preparing to launch aboard future Boeing CST-100 Starliner missions to the International Space Station has begun to arrive at NASA's Johnson Space Center. Personnel from NASA's Flight Operations Directorate will use the trainers to prepare astronauts and flight controllers for the ascent, rendezvous and docking, and descent phases of flight in the Boeing spacecraft.

Space Budgets, Policy, Missions, Benefits, International …

·The Case for Space:America still needs space travel: Mark Kelly Humanity must not let temporary setbacks, like the still unexplained Sept. 1 launch pad explosion of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, reduce space exploration ambitions, writes former NASA astronaut Mark Kelly in an op-ed. Kelly believes the U.S. private sector is an important partner with NASA in the quest.

·Lunar Exploration:Is a moon village the next step for space exploration? ESA's chief thinks so European Space Agency director general Jan Woerner believes an internationally supported lunar village offers the best post-International Space Station endeavor for human explorers to test technologies for missions deeper into the solar system. Jeff Hoffman, a former NASA astronaut, believes lunar missions could be a benefit if the infrastructures don't become so costly they "suck up" the resources needed to reach Mars.

·Musk Plans for Mars:Musk Shares Technical Details of His Dream for Mars Colonization SpaceX founder Elon Musk presented a Mars settlement strategy before the International Astronautical Congress meeting in Guadalajara, one intended to make the human race a multi-planet species through the development of large, reusable spacecraft that can be refueled. "It was a visionary speech that appealed to many in the crowd, but despite Musk's evident passion, many question the realism of his plans. Even Musk said that his immediate goal is to create the dream of Mars in people's mind, to "make it seem possible in our lifetimes," according to the report.

·200 Launches Annually from Space Coast:Space Florida CEO expects up to 200 launches per year Florida can look forward to as many as 200 space launches annually as interest in commercial space grows, according to Frank DiBello, head of Space Florida, the state's aerospace development agency.

·Dream Chaser UN Payload:United Nations to fly first space mission on Dream Chaser The United Nations will join with Sierra Nevada Corp. for the 2021 launch of the company's reusable Dream Chaser launch vehicle. Dream Chaser will carry payloads from the world's developing nations under an agreement with the U.N.'s Office of Space Affairs.

·Vulcan Rocket Update:ULA, Air Force agree on Vulcan rocket certification process United Launch Alliance and the Air Force sign agreements intended to lead to certification of ULA's new Vulcan rocket for the launching of U.S. national security payloads. The military will review ULA's overall flight history, vehicle design, reliability, process maturity, safety systems, manufacturing and operations, systems engineering, risk management and launch facilities and monitor at least two Vulcan flights as part of the process.

Human Space Exploration Update (September 6-23, 2016)

2016 Election

·Clinton and Trump on Space:Clinton supports human Mars exploration Presidential contender Hillary Clinton pledged support for the human exploration of Mars in response to a questionnaire from ScienceDebate.org. Clinton did not elaborate on possible changes to current strategy that calls for a human presence in the Martian environs by the mid-2030s. Rival Donald Trump expressed support for a strong space program, but did not elaborate on Mars as a goal.

·Stay the Course on Space:Bill Nye to Trump, Clinton: Stay the Course in Space Bill Nye, CEO of the Planetary Society and widely known as the Science Guy, urges presidential candidates Hilliary Clinton and Donald Trump to stay the course with NASA and space hardware developments that enable future human deep space exploration and other planetary science missions.

Congress

·NASA Authorization Bill:Senate panel authorizes money for Mars mission, shuttle replacement In a bid to stabilize the nation's civil space endeavors across a transition in U.S. presidential administrations, the Senate Commerce Committee has passed a bipartisan measure that authorizes a $19.5 billion 2017 budget to continue work on a human Mars mission and efforts to send astronauts on private rockets launched from U.S. soil to the International Space Station. The measure, the NASA Transition Authorization Act of 2016, is expected to pass once it reaches the full Senate.

·Rep. Babin on Commercial Space:Babin Wants Regulatory Rethink for Commercial Space Rep. Brian Babin, chair of the U.S. House space subcommittee, urged a re-thinking of efforts among policy makers to regulate commercial space ventures. Babin, who spoke to a gathering of the Commercial Space Flight Federation, expressed concerns excessive regulation could stifle innovation or smother creativity.

International Space Station

·Tool Competition for ISS:Design a 3-D Printed Tool for Astronauts to Use Aboard the Space Station The ISS Design Challenge, sponsored by Mouser Electronics, offers an opportunity for college students to suggest tools for International Space Station astronauts. Top concepts could be manufactured with 3-D printing hardware aboard the six person orbiting science laboratory. Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, a previous space station commander, will be among the judges.

·Health Care Research in Space:What are the long-term health effects of living in space? NASA is studying twins Mark and Scott Kelly to find out NASA's twins study could reveal changes to humans working in a low gravity space environment that were too subtle to recognize previously. The subjects are retired NASA astronaut twins Scott and Mark Kelly. Scott returned to Earth on Mar. 1, after a U.S. record-setting 340 days in space. Scientists are comparing Scott and Mark down to the genetic level in order to help prepare future astronauts for month's to year's long missions to deep space destinations.

·Astronaut Speaks to Young Cancer Patients:It's An Amazing World Of Discovery Up Here: NASA Kate Rubins To MD Anderson Children NASA's Kate Rubins, an astronaut aboard the International Space Station and a biologist, spoke with young patients at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Rubins wore a special space suit for the occasion, one painted in bright colors by several of the patients. Asked by one of the patients what it takes to become an astronaut, Rubins replied, "You need to be curious and motivated for discovery and for research. There's so much to discover up here."

·Orion Abort Motor Test:Aerojet Rocketdyne tests Orion abort system jettison motor The powerful jettison motor Aerojet is developing for the NASA/Lockheed Martin Orion capsule generated 45,000 pounds of thrust during an Aug. 31 ground test in Rancho Cordova, Calif. Orion is in development to launch astronauts on future missions of deep space exploration. During the launch phase, the spacecraft ascends under an abort motor designed to propel the capsule and its crew away from a launch vehicle emergency. The jettison motor lifts the abort motor and a protective shell from Orion after first stage separation during nominal flight.

·SLS Engine Tests: Educating the SLS engines Brains for the RS-25s undergoing certification NASA and its contractors are approaching a critical moment in the qualification of the first stage engines assigned to the Space Launch System exploration rocket. The engines are based on those that launched the space shuttle. They are undergoing ground tests at NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. The ground tests are qualifying an advanced engine controller for the SLS. The first test flight of the SLS, NASA's Exploration Mission-1, will pair the rocket with an uncrewed Orion capsule. Liftoff is planned for late 2018.

Commercial Space Transportation

·ISS Resupply:Company sets October launch date to resupply space station NASA and Orbital ATK have set Oct. 9-13 as the launch period for the Dulles, Va.-based company's next NASA-contracted re-supply mission to the International Space Station. The mission will mark Orbital ATK's return to NASA's Wallops Island Facility on Virginia's Eastern Shore as a launch site. It will re-introduce the company's Antares launch vehicle with a new Russian manufactured main engine as well.

·Emphasis on Crew Safety:Commercial crew companies emphasize safety over schedule Representatives from Boeing, SpaceX and NASA's Commercial Crew Program pledge safety over schedule in their efforts to develop U.S. commercial launch services for astronauts assigned to the International Space Station.

Space Budgets, Policy, Missions, Benefits, International …

·Asteroid Redirect Mission:NASA provides update on Asteroid Redirect Mission While the U.S. Congress doubts the value of NASA's Asteroid Redirect Mission, some policymakers and planners remain steadfast to the contributions it could make to human deep space exploration, science and fending off near-Earth asteroids with the potential to impact the Earth. ARM would visit an asteroid, robotically extract a boulder and maneuver the big rock into orbit around the moon. Astronauts launched in an Orion spacecraft atop a Space Launch System rocket would visit the boulder and gather samples for return to Earth.

·Exploring Mars:Path to Mars Should Be Flexible, Experts Agree In remarks before a recent AIAA gathering in Long Beach, Calif., Bill Gerstenmaier, NASA's associate administrator for Human Exploration and Operations, and others involved in the planning, called for flexibility in the space agency's efforts to reach the Martian environs with humans. The flexibility will enable them to best deal with health risks, establish the best propulsion strategies and overcome other obstacles, said Gerstenmaier and others involved in a panel discussion. (See also: How We Can Finally Get to Mars and The best reason to go to Mars)

·Red Mars Initiative:NASA to have limited role in SpaceX's planned Mars campaign NASA intends to serve as a consultant to SpaceX's ambitious "Red Mars" initiative, a private sector attempt to land an unmanned spacecraft on the Martian surface as soon as 2018. In return, NASA hopes for data on supersonic retro propulsion, a technique for slowing a spacecraft as it enters the Martian atmosphere ahead of the descent and landing phases. NASA hopes to use supersonic retropropulsion to land U.S. explorers on Mars in the future.

·Mars Exhibit at KSC Visitors Complex:Moon-walker Aldrin hopes exhibit will inspire future on Mars Destination Mars, a new exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Central Florida, opens to the public. Apollo 11's Buzz Aldrin joined a preview this weekend to express his support for the exhibit developed with help from Microsoft and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. The exhibit includes Martian vistas obtained by NASA's Curiosity rover.

Human Space Exploration Update (August 1-12, 2016)

2016 Election

·Clinton Highlights SLS Rocket:NASA's Space Launch System referenced by Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton spoke on Thursday (August 11) during a campaign event held at Futuramic, a small business manufacturing facility that works with the military, automotive and space industries. Futuramic is a NASA Space Launch System (SLS) supplier. Clinton remarked, "I got to see what's happening here to help build the SLS rocket that is going to go from Macomb to Mars."

·Candidates and Need for Space Exploration Vision:NASA vision Presidential contenders Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have so far missed opportunities to outline their strategies for NASA and human space exploration, according to a newspaper editorial. "JFK gave NASA a mission," the Chronicle states of the Apollo lunar exploration initiative. "Our next president needs to follow his example."

International Space Station

·Long Duration Spaceflight:Williams to become NASA's longest-duration space flier NASA's Jeff Williams, the current International Space Station commander, is in line on Aug. 24 to break the U.S. record of 520 days for time accumulated in space over a career that includes four spaceflights. The current record was established Mar. 1, 2016, as Scott Kelly returned to Earth after nearly a year in Earth orbit aboard the space station. Williams, however, will first join with fellow NASA astronaut Kate Rubins for an Aug. 19 spacewalk to install an International Docking Adapter on the station to accommodate future U.S. commercial crew launch vehicles developed by Boeing and SpaceX.

Orion and Space Launch System

·Heat Shield Installation on Orion:Installation of heat-shielding tiles marks new phase for Orion spacecraft The NASA/Lockheed Martin Orion crew capsule designated for a late 2018 test flight, Exploration Mission-1, is undergoing heat shield installation at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The uncrewed capsule is to launch atop the first Space Launch System exploration rocket for a voyage around the moon and back to Earth for an ocean splashdown and recovery.

·SLS Rocket Test:SLS engine fired up following previous aborted test A first stage rocket engine from Aerojet Rocketdyne for NASA's Space Launch System exploration rocket ran for a full-duration 650 seconds during a successful ground test at NASA's Stennis Space Center in Mississippi on Friday. The firing was a "make up" for a mid-July test firing that was aborted in response to a test stand problem. The Exploration Mission-1 test launch of the SLS with an unpiloted Orion capsule is planned for late 2018.

·SpaceX Gets Second ISS Launch Order:NASA orders second Space Station ferry ship from SpaceX NASA has ordered its second SpaceX post-certification commercial crew mission launch to the International Space Station. The agency had already ordered two launches from Boeing, NASA's second provider, using the company's CST-100 Starliner. The new order satisfies the NASA Commercial Crew Transportation Capability program minimum order pledge, though orders of four more missions each from Boeing and SpaceX are possible under the agreement.

·Astronauts Look Forward to Commercial Crew Launches:Astronauts look forward to Florida launchesBy the end of this year, NASA may be ready to name the first crew to fly on new Boeing and SpaceX launch vehicles launched from Florida aboard the CST-100 Starliner and crewed Dragon spacecraft developed under NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Those preparing for test flights include astronauts Bob Behnken, Doug Hurley, Eric Boe and Sunita Williams.

·Moon-Mars Exploration:Is the Moon a necessary step on the path to Mars? NASA's plans to reach Mars with human explorers in the 2030s should proceed in the aftermath of U.S. presidential and Congressional elections this year, write Chris Carberry and Rick Zucker, Explore Mars, Inc., CEO and director for political outreach. A moon-first strategy, as proposed by the European Space Agency, is a worthy goal in and of itself but not necessary as a stepping stone to Mars, according to Carberry and Zucker, who add, "The goal of humans on Mars is a compelling one and has long-standing public and bipartisan support."

·Asteroid Mining:Space race heats up: Deep Space Industries plans to visit asteroid by 2020 Deep Space Industries plans to take its space mining aspirations to a near-Earth asteroid by end of this decade. Relying on a novel water-based propulsion system, the company's Prospector 1 spacecraft would survey then settle to the asteroid's surface to complete a search for resources that could be mined. Prospector 1 would be a follow-on to Prospector X, an Earth-orbiting prototype satellite that will be launched next year as a technology demonstrator. The government of Luxembourg announced in May that it was partnering with California-based Deep Space Industries for the orbital demonstration. (Also see: Asteroid Redirect Mission at critical juncture)

·Lunar Exploration and Space Law:Moon Express regulatory approval prompts questions about space law A surge in interest by commercial space companies to seek out and potentially mine resources from asteroids and the moon may raise legal issues over ownership rights. Moon Express recently won the approval of the U.S. FAA to launch the first commercial mission to the moon, a regulatory requirement spelled out in the 1967 Outer Space Treaty signed by more than 100 nations and the U.S. Commercial Space Launch Competitiveness Act, passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama late last year. (See also: U.S. government poised to approve first private mission to the Moon)

·Students and Commercial Space:As commercial space race grows, student interest takes off Central Florida's Embry-Riddle and Central Florida universities report increased student interest in aerospace engineering. Educators and those in the industry link the rise to an improving U.S. economy and increased commercial space activities in Florida and elsewhere.

·Chinese Space Exploration:China prepares for new round of manned space missions Preparations are underway at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center for the launch of China's second space station, Tiangong-2, in mid-September. Two Chinese astronauts are to follow with the launch of the Shenzhou-11 in mid-October.

·ISS Operations to 2024:ESA enlists NASA chief in campaign for Space Station support NASA Administrator Charles Bolden urges continued support from European nations for the International Space Station. Among the station's five major partners, the European Space Agency, has yet to back an extension of activities aboard the six person orbiting science lab from 2020 to 2024. Bolden spoke to the ruling council of the European Space Agency earlier this week.

Orion and Space Launch System

·Orion Testing at NASA Langley:Orion test capsule gets another splash-test at NASA Langley NASA's Orion crew exploration capsule, under development at Lockheed Martin, is undergoing water impact testing at NASA's Langley Research Center. The latest round included male and female crash dummies equipped with sensors and strapped in the capsule as it slammed into a test pool. The test conditions vary wave height, winds and parachute performance.

·SLS Propulsion:SLS upper stage test article arrives at NASA Marshall The structural test article for the Boeing developed Interim Cryogenic Propulsion Stage has reached NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, where it is to undergo loads testing later this year. The ICPS will serve as the upper stage for the first test launch of NASA's Space Launch System exploration rocket in late 2018. The uncrewed test flight, Exploration Mission-1, is to take the Orion crew capsule around the moon and back to Earth for an ocean splashdown and recovery.

Commercial Space Transportation

·Commercial Crew Progress: Suni Williams details Commercial Crew Program progress during visit to NASA's Plum Brook Station Suni Williams, a veteran NASA astronaut and one of four "test astronauts" assigned to NASA's commercial crew program visits the agency's Plum Brook Station near the Glenn Research Center. Commercial Crew is focused on nurturing two private sector sources of astronaut transportation to and from the International Space Station, freeing NASA to pursue its human deep space exploration goals. "We want to get out the business of transportation to low-Earth orbit because we've done that before,'' Williams told Spaceflight Insider. "The belief is that commercial companies can provide this hardware, maybe smarter, maybe faster than we can, given the technologies that we've already laid the groundwork for in the past with the Shuttle and other programs.''

·Cygnus and NASA Fire Experiment:Cygnus leaves Space Station and conducts NASA fire experiment in microgravity Orbital ATK's NASA contracted Cygnus resupply spacecraft departed the six person International Space Station early Tuesday after an 80 day stay. Late in the day, the capsule became a test bed for a spacecraft fire experiment. The research is intended to improve the safety of deep space habitats for astronauts on future missions to Mars.

·Antares Return:Antares return to flight likely to slip to August Orbital ATK believes its next NASA contracted commercial re-supply mission to the International Space Station will move from a July to an August lift off. The mission will feature Orbital's first launch of an Antares rocket from the Mid Atlantic Regional Spaceport on Wallops Island, Va. since a launch mishap in late 2014. Orbital temporarily moved the launching of its NASA contracted International Space Station re-supply missions to Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., until the Antares launch vehicle could be modified. The upgraded Antares underwent a test firing at MARS on May 31.

Space Budgets, Policy, Missions, Benefits, International …

·A Day Without Space:Commentary | A Day without space Many of us cannot recall such a moment: A time without Internet, smart phones and instant weather forecasts. Imagine extensive passenger flight delays with jets snagged by a broken air traffic control system, our national security personnel without access to satellite imagery, communications intercepts, or a global positioning system. Essayist David Logsdon paints a vivid picture of what strides in space mean to our economic and national security. (See also: Why do we really need space travel?)

·Asteroid Redirect Mission: NASA planning asteroid mission reviews despite funding uncertainty NASA's Michele Gates, who leads planning for NASA's Asteroid Redirect Mission (ARM), tells a Seattle audience that efforts to support the initiative will continue though lawmakers in the U.S. House shaping the agency's 2017 budget have withdrawn support. House lawmakers believe ARM, a mission to robotically collect a large boulder from the surface of an asteroid and deliver it to a lunar orbit, will not further NASA's ambitions of reaching Mars with human explorers in the mid-2030s. The robotic phase of the strategy is to undergo a formal review, called Key Decision Point B, on July 15.

·China’s Space Station:China opens space station to rest of the world with United Nations agreement A United Nations agreement signed by China would open Beijing's planned space station to astronauts, spacecraft and science experiments from other nations. Wu Ping, Deputy of China's Manned Space Agency, made the presentation before the UN's Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space annual session in Vienna last Tuesday. The core of China's space station is set for launching in 2018. The European Space Agency has shown interest, according to the report

·Commercial Space Station:Former NASA ISS manager planning commercial space station venture Previous International Space Station manager Mike Suffredini outlines a strategy for a future commercial version of the International Space Station. A module docked first to the Space Station would become the cornerstone, said Suffredini.

·NASA Needs YOU for Mars Exploration:Do you have what it takes to colonize Mars? NASA might need you Colorful posters from NASA tug at those who have the desire to join the agency's Journey to Mars. "Whether repairing an antenna in the extreme environment of Mars, or setting up an outpost on the moon Phobos, having the skills and desire to dare mighty things is all you need," proclaims one of the colorful placards. "We need many things for our Journey To Mars, but one key piece is YOU!" proclaims another.

·Space Policy Legislation:Bridenstine pleased by progress on space policy bill In April, Rep. Jim Bridenstine, of Oklahoma, introduced the American Space Renaissance Act, a sweeping space policy doctrine. So far, Bridenstine is pleased with how the thrust of his legislation has found its way into other legislative bills influencing the direction and financing of military as well as civilian space objectives. One theme urges the federal government to look to commercial space enterprises for services once provided by civil servants.

International Space Station

·Inflatable Space Modules:Take a look inside the 1st inflatable space room for astronauts (photos) International Space Station astronauts offered photos of the new Bigelow Expandable Activities Module (BEAM) after opening hatches and entering for the first time on Monday. BEAM is a prototype for a reinforced fabric extendable module that could shelter astronauts on missions to deep space destinations or while living on Mars and other planetary surfaces. Launched to the space station in April, BEAM will undergo a two year observation period to learn how the structure responds to temperature swings, radiation exposures and impacts from micro meteoroids and orbital debris.

·ISS Space Walks:Spectacular Space Station spacewalks: photos Since 1998, the International Space Station has been the site of 193 spacewalks for the assembly and repair of the six person orbiting science laboratory as well as to tend to external experiments. NASA has compiled a social media album of the best images over the years.

·Starliner Progress: Starliner moves closer to crucial pad abort test Major components of Boeing's CST-100 Starliner are coming together at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to support critical flight tests in late 2017. The Starliner is in development to transport NASA astronauts to and from the International Space Station as part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Crewed launches are planned in 2018.

·Antares Rocket:Re-engined Antares rocket completes ground test firing Orbital ATK test fired the first stage of its upgraded Antares rocket Tuesday at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport on Virginia's eastern shore. The Dulles, Va., based company is preparing to resume NASA contracted resupply missions to the International Space Station from the launch complex, following an October 2014 launch mishap that prompted new rocket engines for Antares and a rebuilding of the launch pad.

Citizens for Space Exploration – a pro-space, taxpayer, grassroots advocacy group (www.citizensforspace.org) – has travelled to Washington, D.C. the past 24 years to meet face-to-face with Members/staff of Congress to discuss the value of America’s investment in space exploration. In order to sustain that dialogue on a regular basis, Citizens distributes “Space Exploration Update” to Congressional offices on a weekly basis. The intent is to provide an easy, quick way to stay abreast of key human space exploration program and policy developments.

·Space Policy Legislation:Bridenstine pleased by progress on space policy bill In April, Rep. Jim Bridenstine, of Oklahoma, introduced the American Space Renaissance Act, a sweeping space policy doctrine. So far, Bridenstine is pleased with how the thrust of his legislation has found its way into other legislative bills influencing the direction and financing of military as well as civilian space objectives. One theme urges the federal government to look to commercial space enterprises for services once provided by civil servants.

International Space Station

·Inflatable Space Modules:Take a look inside the 1st inflatable space room for astronauts (photos) International Space Station astronauts offered photos of the new Bigelow Expandable Activities Module (BEAM) after opening hatches and entering for the first time on Monday. BEAM is a prototype for a reinforced fabric extendable module that could shelter astronauts on missions to deep space destinations or while living on Mars and other planetary surfaces. Launched to the space station in April, BEAM will undergo a two year observation period to learn how the structure responds to temperature swings, radiation exposures and impacts from micro meteoroids and orbital debris.

·ISS Space Walks:Spectacular Space Station spacewalks: photos Since 1998, the International Space Station has been the site of 193 spacewalks for the assembly and repair of the six person orbiting science laboratory as well as to tend to external experiments. NASA has compiled a social media album of the best images over the years.

·Starliner Progress: Starliner moves closer to crucial pad abort test Major components of Boeing's CST-100 Starliner are coming together at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to support critical flight tests in late 2017. The Starliner is in development to transport NASA astronauts to and from the International Space Station as part of NASA's Commercial Crew Program. Crewed launches are planned in 2018.

·Antares Rocket:Re-engined Antares rocket completes ground test firing Orbital ATK test fired the first stage of its upgraded Antares rocket Tuesday at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport on Virginia's eastern shore. The Dulles, Va., based company is preparing to resume NASA contracted resupply missions to the International Space Station from the launch complex, following an October 2014 launch mishap that prompted new rocket engines for Antares and a rebuilding of the launch pad.

·NASA Budget:Senate Appropriators Approve $19.3 Billion for NASA for FY2017 The Senate Appropriations Committee approved a NASA budget of $19.3 billion for 2017, a small increase over the 2016 level, according to the report. The measure supports work on the Space Launch System exploration rocket as well as an Enhanced Upper Stage, the Orion crew exploration vehicle and the agency's Commercial Crew Program.

International Space Station

·Expandable Crew Module:Expandable crew module attached to space stationThe Bigelow Expandable Activities Module delivered to the International Space Station last week on the most recent U.S. commercial re-supply mission was removed from the freighter early Saturday morning using Canadian robot arm operations and attached to the orbiting lab's Tranquility module. The prototype module for human habitation in Earth orbit and deep space is scheduled to be expanded in late May from its current 7 feet in length and 8 feet in diameter to 13 feet in length and 10 feet in diameter. A two year observation period is to follow.

·Orion Acoustic Testing:Turn up the bass! Orion Service Module to begin acoustic testing at Plum Brook Station Monday will mark the start of a rigorous round of acoustic testing for the Orion capsule's European Space Agency provided service module at NASA's Glenn Research Center Plumbrook Station. The service module will provide the crewed Orion spacecraft with power, air, propulsion and cooling. The acoustic testing is expected to take six weeks.

·Stay the Course on Exploration:Op-ed | Stay the Course: Continue America's Progress in Space Current U.S. space policy, in which government investments are committed to human and planetary science deep space exploration objectives, serves a range of national interests, from national security to scientific discovery and a stronger economy. Commercial sector advances into Low Earth Orbit are equally significant, serving a range of stakeholders -- from taxpayers to innovation minded entrepreneurs and investors, writes Mary Lynne Dittmar, executive director of the Coalition for Deep Space Exploration.

·Mars Exploration:NASA getting closer to "Boots on Mars" with Colorado companies' help A key to the human exploration of Mars is reducing our dependence on the Earth, explains Dava Newman, NASA's deputy administrator, during her participation in the 32nd Space Symposium in Colorado Springs last week. Research aboard the International Space Station is helping, Newman noted. She also praised the efforts of Colorado companies, including Lockheed Martin Space Systems, Sierra Nevada and Ball Aerospace in reaching the goal. (See also: Inside the Grand Plan to Send Humans to Mars)

·Russia-China Space Collaboration:Russia and China successfully cooperate in space exploration Chinese deputy minister Igor Komarov, CEO of Roscosmos, the Russian space agency and corporation, will mark China's upcoming National Space Day in the host country. The two nations are cooperating in "several dozen" areas of space exploration, according to a high ranking official from China's industry and information technology ministry.

·Solar Electric Propulsion: An engine for Mars: Aerojet wins $67 million NASA contract for solar electric propulsion Under a $67 million NASA contract announced Tuesday, Aerojet Rocketdyne will pursue the development of a solar electric propulsion system. SEP is NASA's choice for the Asteroid Robotic Redirect Mission to collect a boulder from an asteroid and maneuver it into orbit around the moon for a visit by U.S. astronauts. SEP is also a strong propulsion candidate for missions in the 2030s that would transport U.S. astronauts to the Martian environs.

·Don’t Reset US Exploration Program:NASA's Human Spaceflight Program can't afford another reset from the next President At six years old, the reigning U.S. civil space policy has come too far with its plans to reach Mars with astronauts in the mid-2030s with NASA's Space Launch System exploration rocket and Orion crew capsule to re-set, writes Peter Juul, a policy analyst at American Progress. In an op-ed, Juul cautions that an imminent change in White House administrations could prompt as much. It's unnecessary, he contends. "Those guidelines leave plenty of room for the next administration to put its mark on America's human space exploration program without ripping it up at the roots," he writes of the 2010 policy objectives.

International Space Station

·New Crew for ISS:First American to live on ISS for 3 long missions arrives after Soyuz night launch and docking Astronaut Jeff William joined Russian cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Oleg Skripochka for a Soyuz launch to the International Space Station late Friday. Their docking restored the space station to six person operations. Williams, the first from NASA to staff the Space Station for a third long mission, and his colleagues replace NASA's Scott Kelly, Mikhail Kornienko and Sergey Volkov, who returned to Earth Mar. 1, ending a 340 day flight for Kelly and Kornienko.

Orion and Space Launch System

·Progress on SLS:NASA moves ahead on Space Launch System tests NASA is test firing the RS-25 engine at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi in preparation for future flight tests of the Space Launch System exploration rocket. One recent ground test firing spanned 500 seconds, long enough for the SLS to journey from the launch pad to orbit with astronauts seated aboard the Orion spacecraft.

·Tooling for SLS: For rockets going farther than ever, you need the best and biggest tools Tooling at NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility, near New Orleans, reveals the scope of U.S. efforts to reach Mars with human explorers. The welding tool for the first stage of the Space Launch System exploration rocket towers 170 feet. "[The tools here] are terrifically accurate, we're talking down to thousandths of an inch in accuracy," says Pat Whipps, the resident program manager at Michoud. "It's interesting. The tools are sometimes many stories tall, yet the manufacturing tolerance is down in thousandths of an inch."

Commercial Space Transportation

·Cygnus Mission to ISS:Second Cygnus ship in three months rockets to orbit aboard Atlas 5 An Orbital ATK Cygnus spacecraft filled with 7,500 pounds of supplies lifted off atop an Atlas V rocket for the six man International Space Station late Tuesday. The departure from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., placed the crew supplies, research equipment and other gear on a course to rendezvous with the orbiting science lab early Saturday. Astronaut Tim Kopra will be positioned at the internal controls of the station's robot arm to grapple the capsule which will remain berthed for about two months.

·CST-100 Starliner:NASA shows off access arm, "last place on earth" for astronauts on Space Coast Early this week, representatives of NASA, United Launch Alliance and Boeing gathered in Oak Hill to preview the access arm and "White Room'' that future International Space Station astronauts will use to board Boeing's CST-100 Starliner for commercial transportation to the orbiting science lab. Launches are to begin by the end of 2017.